Pixel 9 Pro Upgraded to Android 16: Love and Security Boost

Google recently launched Android 16, which was initially anticipated to bring significant upgrades to the mobile operating system. Despite the release of some notable features, others were notably absent, leading to mixed reactions. Typically, major Android updates are released in late summer or fall. However, Android 16 hit the market in June 2025, about three months earlier than usual. The primary reason for this early release is to align it with the launch of the Pixel 10 series, ensuring that these new devices come preloaded with the latest software. This approach addresses the disappointment of the previous year when the Pixel 9 series shipped with Android 14 due to Android 15 not being ready for prime time. What's New in Android 16? Advanced Protection: One of the standout features of Android 16 is the introduction of Advanced Protection within the Security & Privacy settings. When enabled, this feature enhances protection against online attacks, malicious applications, unsafe connections, and other threats. It's a non-customizable, all-or-nothing setting that significantly boosts security. Users should note that apps can detect if Advanced Protection is enabled, 2G connections are blocked (except for emergency calls), and some websites might not load correctly. Nonetheless, this robust security suite is highly recommended for most users, as it provides comprehensive defense against a wide range of cybersecurity threats. Notification Bundling: Notifications in the shade are now automatically bundled by app, reducing visual clutter and making it easier to manage incoming alerts. This feature improves the overall user experience by keeping the notification interface clean and organized. Battery Life Improvements: Google has leveraged AI to refine battery optimization in Android 16. The result is enhanced battery performance, with noticeable differences on Pixel devices. A new "Battery health" page within the Settings menu provides detailed insights and tips for maintaining battery longevity. Since the update, users report ending their days with significantly higher battery percentages—a welcome improvement for those dealing with the demands of daily use. Tabbed Terminal App: For developers and advanced users, the terminal app on Android now supports a tabbed interface. This allows for running multiple sessions simultaneously, such as an SSH session in one tab while performing other tasks in another, improving productivity and efficiency. What's Missing from Android 16? Material 3 Expressive: One of the most eagerly awaited features, Material 3 Expressive, did not make the initial release of Android 16. This design language promised more natural animations, new icon shapes, background blur effects, improved color themes, and a redesigned UI for several Google apps. Google has confirmed that Material 3 Expressive will roll out "later this year," likely coinciding with the Pixel 10 release. The absence of this feature has left many users feeling that the update lacks the visual and functional overhaul they were hoping for. Desktop Mode: Another notable omission is Desktop Mode, similar to Samsung's DeX. This feature would enable users to connect their Android phones to an external display and experience a desktop-like environment, enhancing productivity and versatility. Currently, the option to enable desktop experience features is missing from the Developer Options menu in Android 16. Like Material 3 Expressive, Desktop Mode is expected to be included in future updates. Android Enterprise Enhancements Google has also made significant strides with its Android Enterprise platform, aiming to strengthen security and improve management capabilities in the workplace. Employee Security: - Advanced Protection: This feature, also available for personal devices, helps defend against targeted attacks. It includes multiple security measures activated with a single tap, such as blocking unsafe websites and protecting against scam calls. - Identity Check: To prevent PIN theft and shoulder surfing, Identity Check requires biometric authentication (facial or fingerprint recognition) for signing into devices and apps. Administrative Tools: - Efficient Device Setup: Setting up Android devices for organizational use is now simpler and faster, with fewer setup screens and a streamlined enrollment process. - Customer Portal Improvements: Upcoming enhancements to the Android Enterprise customer portal will allow for more granular access permissions and detailed audit logs. - EID Access for eSIM Management: IT administrators can access EID (Embedded Identity Document) information from Android devices to manage eSIMs more effectively. - 5G Network Slicing: Admins can create virtual slices of a single 5G connection to allocate different resources for various types of traffic, optimizing business resource access. - Support for Android App Bundle Files: Private apps can be bundled into a managed Google Play process for seamless distribution to employees. Features for Workplace Efficiency Gemini in Google Docs: Employees can utilize AI-driven features in Google Docs, such as summarizing documents and drafting new versions. This enhancement is available to Google Workspace Business Standard, Plus, and Enterprise Standard customers, as well as those using Gemini Education or Enterprise add-ons. Auto Grouping of Notifications: Similar to the notification bundling on personal devices, this feature will help employees stay organized and focused. Desktop Windowing and Taskbar Overflow: For Android tablets, these features resize multiple windows for efficient multitasking and allow users to sort and access open apps via an expandable panel. Customize Keyboard Shortcuts: Employees can create personalized shortcuts for quicker access to frequently used tools. PDFs in Chrome: Chrome on Android devices can now handle PDFs directly, enhancing document accessibility and convenience. Industry Insiders and Company Profiles Despite the early release of Android 16, industry insiders remain optimistic. The addition of Advanced Protection and battery optimizations demonstrates Google's commitment to user security and performance. The delayed rollout of Material 3 Expressive and Desktop Mode suggests that Google prioritized functionality and stability over cosmetics and feature completeness. This strategic move aligns with the company's goal of providing a smooth user experience and addressing critical user needs. Google’s Android Enterprise platform continues to evolve, offering organizations robust tools to manage and secure their mobile devices. The new features, particularly the Enhanced Protection and Identity Check, are crucial in mitigating security risks, a growing concern in the mobile-first work environment. The improvements in administrative functions and support for emerging technologies like 5G network slicing are welcomed by IT professionals, who now have more control and flexibility in managing workplace devices. Overall, Android 16 lays a solid foundation for future updates and highlights Google’s focus on user-centric improvements, making sure that both personal and business users benefit from the latest advancements in mobile technology.